For many centuries wood was a primary material choice for handcrafted household items such as tableware, furniture, barrels and crates. At the beginning of its life barrel was used to store liquids such as wine, water, kerosene (paraffin or lamp oil, and coal oil). Liquids slowly destroyed wood and as time passed old barrels did get re-purposed as containers for dry items.  Usually old barrels were used for storing shoes and clothes yet sometimes even treasures. An old barrel was able to become a piece of furniture, cover or event an obstacle on enemy's way.